Herald football reporter Michael Burgess and sports editor Winston Aldworth debate the worth of having veteran Tommy Smith in the World Cup squad. Video / Ryan Bridge TODAY
Wellington Phoenix coach Bev Priestman was positive about her team’s chances next season after falling short in the A-League Women grand final to Melbourne City.
The Australian side dominated the Phoenix for much of the final, but Makala Woods gave the eventual runners-up hope with a goal in the 52ndminute.
However, City were too strong in the end and won 3-1, securing their fifth championship trophy.
Priestman said the Phoenix weren’t at their best on the day, but they now have a point to prove for next season.
“I’ve seen people be at their best when they’re hungry and I think this leaves a little bit on us and in many ways, it might help us next year to push to another level,” she said.
“I’ve got an ambitious club, an owner who I’m just talking to is about improving for next season.
Bev Priestman (second from left) and her Wellington Phoenix players clap their fans after losing the A-League grand final. Photo / Photosport
“I’m at my best in these moments, you know, the hunger, the desire to push forward, I think everybody will channel that now.”
The team have already seen some of their top performers recommit for next season, including club player of the year Grace Jale, stand-in captain Mackenzie Barry, Brooke Nunn, Makala Woods and Ellie Walker.
Priestman, speaking after the loss on Saturday, was confident that players with an option to return next season would, but hinted new signings are likely to arrive.
“I think every single player, if they had the choice tonight, will be back next season,” she said.
“There’s a real true love in the room, it’s a together group.
“When you go to a party, it’s who you party with, right? And I think the group have a great time every single day and they push each other.
“And I think every player has got better this season from each other pushing each other.
“So I hope to see a lot back, but there will be some new players come in and inject something different as well.”
The Phoenix women’s team were the first from New Zealand to make an A-League grand final, but after losing their decider, the Auckland FC men now have the chance to be the first team based in the country to win one when they host Sydney FC at Mt Smart Stadium on Saturday May 23.
